Group of Dr. Ploetz - Faculty for Chemistry and Pharmacy

Following molecular transport in cells and tissue

We develop cutting-edge imaging approaches to track nanoparticles and molecular transport in cells and tissues. Our methods provide chemically sensitive insights into uptake, accumulation, and biological effects—whether studying microplastics in tissues, nanoparticle-induced pyroptosis, or cellular import of biomolecules.

One focus of our research is the study of MOF-based nanoparticles as nano-carriers for controlled drug delivery. First studies on lipid-coated MIL-100(Fe) nanoparticles show their ability to release iron ions in slightly acidic extracellular environments, allowing targeted ion delivery and enabling investigations into their impact on cellular behavior. Our goal is to establish a correlative and multifunctional imaging approach to monitor the import, accumulation, and degradation of MOF nanoagents and their effects on cells.

For more information, see our latest publications.

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